Introduction

The Nikkor 28mm f/2.8 is a prime lens that has been around for quite a while, the current AF-D version of the lens was introduced in 1994. However, unlike its sister lenses (the AF-D 20/2.8 and AF-D 24/2.8) it is a new design and does not date back to earlier Ai or Ai-S designs.

It shares other properties with its close relatives, though: it is rather compact and light-weight, and also quite affordable for a relatively fast prime. At the time of this review the lens retails for around 280 EUR/USD.

The AF-D 28/2.8 is designed for full frame cameras, but can of course be used on DX DSLRs, too. In this review we'll have a look at how the lens performs on our current DX test camera, the Nikon D7000, where it is the equivalent of roughly a 42mm f/4 lens. So, on DX the lens no longer behaves as a wide angle, but almost as a standard lens.

The build quality of the lens is very good and in line with most moderately
priced Nikkors. The outer barrel is made of polycarbonate combined with a
metal mount. The small rubberized focus ring is very smooth and only marginally damped, but rotates during AF operation.

Typical for lenses with a linear extension system the whole
inner tube moves during focusing thus extending the lens when focusing towards
closer focus distances.

A hood is not included with the lens and needs to be purchased seperately.

The lens has no internal AF motor and relies on a slotted drive screw operated by the camera, so AF is not available on the motor-free entry level Nikon DSLRs. As a result of the screw drive, AF operation will generate a moderate degree of noise.